The King's School

The world's oldest continuously operating school, founded in 597 AD by St Augustine. The school occupies medieval buildings around Canterbury Cathedral including the Norman Staircase and 14th-century Green Court, with public access to historic grounds during school holidays. It ranks among Canterbury's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one.

Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 45 minutes Best for: walk through the grounds of a 1400 Skip if: You're visiting during term time when access is very limited Cost: Free

You stroll through medieval courtyards and cloisters where students have walked for 14 centuries. The Green Court shows 14th-century architecture, while modern buildings blend with Norman foundations.

Accessibility: Main courtyards accessible, some medieval buildings have steps and narrow doorways

Walk through the grounds of a 1400-year-old school with connections to Christopher Marlowe and other famous alumni. That puts it near the top of any Canterbury visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Canterbury Cathedral and St Augustine's Abbey - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Canterbury. Free entry makes the decision easy - walk in, see if it holds your attention, and leave when you have had enough.

Skip if: You're visiting during term time when access is very limited

• Check school calendar before visiting as access varies.
• Combine with cathedral visit for context.
• Respect that this is a working school during term time.

Insider tip: The Norman Staircase dates to 1160 and connects the school to Canterbury Cathedral's Water Tower

Photography allowed in courtyards during public access, respect privacy during term time